8 Wonders of Kansas That Capture the State’s Spirit

Editor: Hetal Bansal on Sep 08,2025

Kansas is termed the Heart of America, and rightly so. Not only in its expansive prairies and skyscraping skies, stunning landmarks can be found in the state, which the locals brag are the 8 wonders of Kansas. The following attractions reveal the history, culture, and natural marvels of Kansas that make it one of a kind. Have you ever wondered what the 8 wonders of Kansas are? This guide will show you all of them in detail. On our way, we will provide you with nearby hotels and restaurants so that you can organize the perfect visit.

8 Wonders of Kansas

Kansas is more than wide-open prairies—it’s home to breathtaking landmarks, rich history, and natural marvels. Let’s uncover the 8 Wonders of Kansas that make the Sunflower State truly unforgettable.

1. Monument Rocks In Gove County

Monument Rocks is one of the most notorious natural attractions in Kansas; it is an amazing chalk formation that rises upward out of the flat plains. These huge white rocks, some of more than 70 feet in height, are a kind of door opening into the past, because they had been shaped more than 80 million years ago when the region was submerged in an inland sea.

Things To Do At Monument Rocks

Tourists can go around the huge structures and take beautiful shots of the arches and columns. The rocks are golden and orange in the sunset and sunrise, and present a magical view.

Hotels Near Monument Rocks

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Colby – A comfortable stay just a short drive away.
  • Days Inn by Wyndham Colby – Budget-friendly and convenient for travelers.

Restaurants Near Monument Rocks

  • City Limits Bar and Grill in Colby – Known for steaks and American classics.
  • Twisters Eatery in Oakley – A casual spot for burgers and sandwiches.

2. The Cathedral Of The Plains In Victoria

The Cathedral of the Plains (that is, St. Fidelis church) is a magnificent Romanesque-themed church constructed by German residents in the early 20th century. It is among the eight most frequented KS wonders, having twin towers that are 141 feet high in the sky.

Things To Do At The Cathedral Of The Plains

The church has beautiful stained-glass windows, high ceilings, and a very quiet atmosphere that allows visitors to explore the church. It is not a dead parish yet, and one can have a meaningful experience attending a service.

Hotels Near The Cathedral Of The Plains

  • Best Western Plus Butterfield Inn in Hays – Offers modern rooms with great amenities.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Hays – A stylish stay near the cathedral.

Restaurants Near The Cathedral Of The Plains

  • Gella’s Diner and Lb. Brewing Co. in Hays – A favorite for local craft beer and hearty meals.
  • Thirsty’s Brew Pub and Grill in Hays – Popular for steaks and American food.

3. Eisenhower Presidential Library In Abilene

Eisenhower Presidential Library, Eisenhower Museum, and Eisenhower Boyhood Home are dedicated to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States, and a five-star general in World War II. It is not only a museum but a historical trip through American history.

Things To Do At Eisenhower Presidential Library

Explore exhibits on Eisenhower’s life, military career, and presidency. The library also has documents and photographs that give insight into important events of the 20th century.

Hotels Near Eisenhower Presidential Library

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Abilene – Comfortable stay near the library.
  • Diamond Motel Abilene – A classic and affordable lodging option.

4. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

This preserve is one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in North America, showcasing the natural wonders of Kansas. Stretching for miles, the preserve offers a glimpse into the vast ecosystem that once covered most of the Midwest.

Things To Do At Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Enjoy hiking trails, guided tours, and wildlife viewing. Bison herds roam the land, and in spring, wildflowers cover the fields in beautiful colors and scents.

Hotels Near Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

  • Prairiewood Retreat and Preserve in Manhattan – A nature-focused stay with comfort.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Emporia – A convenient and modern hotel nearby.

5. Kansas Cosmosphere And Space Center In Hutchinson

The Cosmosphere is a world-class space museum that surprises many visitors with its size and quality. It is one of the most unique entries in the 8 Wonders of Kansas, featuring artifacts from both the U.S. and Russian space programs.

Things To Do At Kansas Cosmosphere And Space Center

Explore exhibits with real spacecraft, including the Apollo 13 command module. The museum also offers planetarium shows and a theater for space documentaries.

Hotels Near Cosmosphere

  • Fairfield Inn and Suites Hutchinson – Comfortable lodging close to the museum.
  • Comfort Inn and Suites Hutchinson – Affordable stay with modern amenities.

6. Kansas State Capitol In Topeka

kansas state capitol building front view

The Kansas State Capitol is not only a government building but also an architectural masterpiece. With a copper dome rising above Topeka, it is a symbol of Kansas pride.

Things To Do At Kansas State Capitol

Visit guided tours of the murals, historic rooms, and hike to the top of the dome to have a panoramic view of the city. John Steuart Curry is particularly impressive with his work.

Hotels Near Kansas State Capitol

  • Cyrus Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Topeka – Stylish downtown lodging.
  • Capitol Plaza Hotel Topeka – Convenient and comfortable stay near the Capitol.

7. Big Well In Greensburg

The largest hand-dug well in the world is the Big Well, created in 1887. It is 109 feet deep and 32 feet in width, where it one of the most intriguing eight wonders of Kansas. It is also where today there is a museum that tells the story of how Greensburg was rebuilt following a tornado that was a disaster.

Things To Do At Big Well

Descend to the well, visit the exhibits at the museum, and find out about the efforts used to revive the town. There are also meteorites found in the well.

Hotels Near Big Well

  • Best Western Plus Night Watchman Inn & Suites in Greensburg – Comfortable and close to attractions.
  • Kiowa Inn in Greensburg – A smaller option for budget travelers.

8. William Allen White House In Emporia

It was also called Red Rocks, and this historic house was owned by William Allen White, who was a renowned journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner. His work influenced the national opinion in the early 20th century, so his home became one of the cultural landmarks of Kansas.

Things To Do At William Allen White House

Explore the historic house, view original furniture, and get to know the life and contributions of White to journalism and politics. A nice walk can be taken in the gardens as well.

Hotels Near William Allen White House

  • Candlewood Suites Emporia – Modern and convenient stay.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Emporia – Affordable option with good amenities.

Final Thoughts

These locations provide an answer to the query of what the 8 wonders of Kansas whether it is the natural wonders like Monument Rocks and Tallgrass Prairie, or the cultural heritage, such as Eisenhower Library and Cathedral of the Plains. The stories behind each wonder are of history, strength, and loveliness. The eight wonders of Kansas are unique experiences for every traveler, be it in nature, history, architecture, or so on. Hotels and restaurants are nearby, and thus, planning a trip has never been better. Kansas is more than a wonder to visit when you want to take a road trip of discovery and memorable experiences.


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